Summary
Introduction to Great Zimbabwe
Great Zimbabwe was the Iron Age capital of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe. Its ruins lie nestled in the country’s southeastern hills and are recognized as the most important and extensive stone ruins in sub-Saharan Africa. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986, the Great Zimbabwe National Monument’s surviving towers and enclosures are constructed from thousands of stones carefully balanced on each other without the use of mortar.
The Rise and Fall of Great Zimbabwe
Scientific research has shown that Great Zimbabwe was founded in the 11th century by a lost Bantu civilization, the Shona. Its inhabitants traded gold and ivory with visiting merchants from the Swahili Coast, Arabia, and India in exchange for porcelain, cloth, and glass. Consequently, they became increasingly wealthy, and the capital prospered, reaching the height of its influence in the 14th century. By this time, more than 10,000 individuals resided within Great Zimbabwe’s impressive stone edifices, which spanned approximately 800 hectares.
However, the dawn of the 15th century marked a shift in the city’s fortunes. The hinterland surrounding the settlement was depleted of timber and game, ultimately unable to sustain the capital’s growing population. By 1450, Great Zimbabwe was abandoned in favor of another medieval city, Khami. By the time Portuguese colonialists arrived in the area in 1505 in search of mythical cities of gold, Great Zimbabwe had already deteriorated into ruins, yet many of its buildings remain remarkably intact today.
Contested Origins
Early European explorers who chanced upon the ruins proposed several different theories regarding their origins. German geographer Karl Mauch speculated about a Biblical connection to King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba; while amateur British archaeologist J. Theodore Bent claimed to have discovered evidence linking the site to Phoenician or Arab traders. Bent’s excavations were sponsored by imperialist Cecil Rhodes and were influenced by a colonial belief that native Africans were too primitive to have constructed such an architecturally sophisticated city.
These misconceptions were debunked by the first scientific excavation of the site in 1905, which uncovered artifacts of indisputable Bantu origin. Further research by British archaeologist Gertrude Caton-Thompson confirmed the area’s African heritage, which has been uncontested since the 1950s. Various African tribes claim ownership of Great Zimbabwe, particularly the Lemba and the modern-day Shona. Archaeological evidence and anthropological studies have led most experts to endorse the theory that the site was constructed by the ancestors of the Shona people.
The Naming of a Nation
Colonial attempts to undermine Great Zimbabwe’s African origins led to its adoption by Black nationalist groups as a symbol of African accomplishment and defiance. When Rhodesia transformed into the independent Republic of Zimbabwe in 1980, the nation’s name was inspired by this Iron Age capital. Moreover, soapstone bird carvings discovered at the site have become a national symbol, prominently appearing on the Zimbabwean flag today.
The Ruins Today
Currently, the ruins of Great Zimbabwe are among the country’s top attractions. They are divided into three distinct areas: the Hill Ruins, the Great Enclosure, and the Valley Ruins. The first set of ruins, built atop a hill, forms an acropolis that most archaeologists believe once housed the city’s royal chiefs. The Great Enclosure consists of multiple community living quarters separated by a series of stone walls dating back to the 14th century. Lastly, the Valley Ruins comprise later brick homes constructed as recently as the 19th century.
Before embarking on a tour of these three unique sites, it’s advisable to visit the Great Zimbabwe Museum. It showcases numerous artifacts unearthed by archaeologists, including Arab coins and porcelain from China, which highlight the settlement’s rich trade history. The museum also displays iconic soapstone bird totems from the city.
How to Visit
The nearest city to Great Zimbabwe is Masvingo, located just a 25-minute drive away. Several hotels in this area make it an ideal base for exploring the ruins. For those wishing to experience the ruins at sunrise and sunset, consider staying either at the on-site campsite or at the nearby Great Zimbabwe Hotel. The hotel offers 38 clean and comfortable rooms, along with amenities like a swimming pool, volleyball court, restaurant, and parking. If you prefer to travel independently, renting a car is a feasible option to reach the ruins and then opt for a guided tour if desired.
Alternatively, many Zimbabwe tour operators include Great Zimbabwe as a stop on their itineraries. Consider exploring packages like Best of Zimbabwe, offered by budget overland company Nomad Tours, or request the ruins be included while planning a tailored itinerary with luxury travel provider &Beyond.
